The Bible

The Bible reveals the mind of God,
the state of man,
the way of salvation,
the doom of sinners,
and the happiness of believers.

Its doctrines are holy,
Its precepts are binding,
its histories are true,
and its decisions are immutable.

Read it to be wise,
believe it to be safe,
and practice it to be holy.
It contains light to direct you,
food to support you,
and comfort to cheer you.

It is the traveler's map,
the pilgrim's staff,
the pilot's compass,
the soldier's sword,
and the Christian's charter.
Here, too, Paradise is restored,
Heaven is opened,
and the gates of Hell disclosed.

The Lord Jesus Christ is its grand subject,
our good its design,
and the glory of God its end.

Let it fill the memory,
rule the heart,
and guide the feet.
Read it slowly,
frequently,
prayerfully.
It is a mine of wealth,
a paradise of glory,
and a river of pleasure.

It is given you in life,
will be opened at the judgement,
and be remembered forever.
It involves the highest responsibility,
will reward the greatest labor,
and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.

Owned, it is riches;
studied, it is wisdom;
trusted, it is salvation;
lived, it is character;
and obeyed, it is power.